The full-size three-row SUV segment is larger than many buyers realize, but the real competition is between two of the top sellers: the Ford Expedition and the Toyota Sequoia. These big boys are getting generation upgrades and fun makeovers for 2023, but when you look at these SUVs side-by-side, the Expedition continues to come out on top.
More Muscle, More Towing Power
The Ford Expedition has three different engines to choose from. The base is a 3.5-liter V-6 with 375 horsepower, but you can get it with an upgraded V-6 that puts out 440 horsepower and delivers 510 pound-feet of torque. When equipped with the tow package, the Expedition can tow up to 9,300 pounds.
The Sequoia received some updates for the 2023 model year, including a new powertrain. The hybrid setup generates 437 horsepower, and it’s the only option for this SUV. When equipped, it can almost tow as much as the Expedition but falls slightly short with a max tow rating of 9,250 pounds.
Cabins Designed for Comfort
Both these SUVs have three rows of seats and room for up to eight passengers, but riders in the Expedition will appreciate the extra head and legroom. The Expedition’s third row will fit adults comfortably, but they will feel cramped in the Sequoia. This is the result of the Expedition’s independent rear suspension as opposed to the Sequoia’s solid rear axle.
An Off-Road Face-Off Between the Big SUVs
One of the best things about driving a large, durable SUV is the fun of taking it off-road. The Ford Expedition has some innovative technology to help you on your trail-blazing adventures. The Timberline adds extra ground clearance and all-terrain tires, and you can also get Trail Turn Assist.
The new Sequoia has some added technology for off-road terrain. You can get it with CRAWL control, Multi-terrain select, and downhill assist control, along with 2.5-inch Fox dampers, but you have to pay extra for these expensive upgrades and additional packages.
Total Tech in Both SUVs
Whether you ride in the 2023 Expedition or the 2023 Sequoia, you’ll have lots of technology right at your fingertips, but this is another area where the Expedition edges out the Toyota. A 15.5-inch portrait-oriented touch screen sits in the center of the dash, running Ford’s latest SYNC 4A infotainment system. You’ll benefit from more functionality, the ability to customize the layout, and even make your own shortcuts, so you can get to the functions you want quickly.
The Sequoia has an updated infotainment system for the 2023 model year, and it has a 14-inch horizontally oriented touchscreen. The benefit of this system is the cloud-based data process, which is great if you have a subscription.
And the King of the Road Is…
In a side-by-side comparison, the upgrades Toyota made to the 2023 Sequoia give the 2023 Ford Expedition more of a run for its money than it did with previous models. But the Expedition continues to come out on top with its power, performance, cabin space, and technology features. If you’re looking for a big SUV with even bigger value, the Expedition is the king of the road.
